2025 Terms & Conditions

By submitting an entry in the 2025 NAWIC Excellence Awards (“Awards”), partnered with Naylor Love Construction (Naylor Love), you are agreeing to the following Terms & Conditions (“Terms & Conditions”):

1. All information on how to enter the Awards forms part of these Terms & Conditions.

2. The Awards are run by the National Association of Women in Construction (New Zealand) Incorporated (“NAWIC”).

3. In these Terms & Conditions, references to the singular include the plural and references to “you” / “your” includes you in your personal capacity and/or as a representative of your organisation and/or your organisation.

4. Eligibility - The Awards recognises outstanding contribution of women in construction. The Awards will reward recipients in the following categories:

• Helen Tippett Award
• Wahine Toa Tradeswoman Award
• Outstanding Leader of the Year - Office Award
• Outstanding Leader of the Year - Site Award
• Excellence in Construction Organisation – Office Award
• Excellence in Site Operational Management – Site or Field Award
• Rising Star - Office Award
• Rising Star - Site Award
• Excellence in Health, Safety & Wellbeing Award
• Student Excellence Award
• Apprentice Excellence Award
• Specialist Plant & Machinery Operators Excellence Award

5. To be eligible to enter the Awards, the Award Force online nomination entry (Entry Form) must be completed and submitted in accordance with these Terms & Conditions and submitted to NAWIC no later than 7:00pm on Friday 9 March 2025. All nominations are deemed to be received at the time NAWIC receives the Entry Form. No late nominations will be accepted.

6. The individual or organisation for whom an Entry Form is submitted, must meet the criteria set out in these Terms & Conditions to be eligible to enter the Awards and be considered. Both self-nomination and third-party nominations are welcome. The nominee must agree to be nominated. The minimum requirements for a nominee are that they:

• Meet the requirements for the specific award category advertised on https://www.nawic.org.nz/nawic-excellence-awards;
• Should be currently involved in the building, construction or infrastructure industries in New Zealand.
• Are eligible to work and reside in New Zealand (for individual), or operating  in New Zealand (for an organisation);
• Have been working or studying (for individual) or operating (for organisation) in New Zealand for at least 12 months prior to 31 March 2025;
• Are the subject of a correctly completed and submitted Entry Form which complies with the requirements set out in these Terms & Conditions;
• Have paid the entry fee in accordance with these Terms & Conditions, if applicable; and
• Are available and willing to attend the Awards presentation on Friday 25 July 2025, or to have someone attend on their behalf, noting that nominees are responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs.

7. An individual may only enter one category. In the event that an individual is nominated for more than one category, the appropriate category will be determined by the NAWIC Awards team.

8. NAWIC reserves the right to disqualify nominations in the event of non-compliance with these Terms & Conditions and, including but not limited to, any instance of illegality, fraud, or incomprehensibility.

9. Current members of the NAWIC National Council and NAWIC Chapter Chairs are not eligible to enter, or nominate others for an award.

10. Entries are free for all current financial NAWIC members as at 12 January 2025 and expiring no less than 3 months after this date.

11. For all non-members entering the Student and Apprentice Award categories, a $77.50 (incl GST) entry fee will be payable.   For all non-members entering any other category, a $155 (incl GST) entry fee will be payable. 

12. For your entry to be accepted, payment must be received no later than 30 April 2025.

JUDGING

13. Pre-selection Process. If entry numbers exceed 180, a Pre-selection Process based solely on the information contained in the submitted entry form will occur to create a shortlist (Shortlist).  The process and criteria for the Shortlist will be determined by the Awards Director and the NAWIC President in their absolute discretion.  The Pre-selection Process will be carried out by at least two senior construction professionals.

14. Each valid entry on the Shortlist, or in the event there are 180 entries or fewer, each valid entry received by NAWIC, will be submitted for judging by a panel of judges appointed by NAWIC.

15. The judges shall determine the eligibility or otherwise of each entry. If the judges consider a category which differs to the category entered is more suitable, NAWIC and/or the judges may transfer a nominee to that category at its/their absolute discretion. 

16. The judges shall determine the winner, if any, of each category in accordance with processes determined by the judges. Entries will be judged individually on their merits as determined by the judges. The judges’ decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into. The judges may determine that no award is to be made in any given category. As the Awards are a competition, it is not possible to provide feedback on individual submissions.

17. Winners of the Awards will be announced at a Gala Dinner on Friday 25 July 2025 at the Cordis Hotel, 83 Symonds Street, Grafton, Auckland.

18. NAWIC, in consultation with Naylor Love in their capacity as Awards Partner, may reschedule the Awards at any time.

LIABILITY

19. Except for any liability that cannot by law be excluded, NAWIC and Naylor Love exclude all liability for any loss (including any damage, claim, injury, cost or expense) which is suffered or incurred by any nominee (including a winner) in connection with the Awards, including, without limitation:

(i) any indirect, economic consequential loss; 

(ii) any loss arising from the negligence of NAWIC or Naylor Love; and 

(iii) any liability for personal injury or death.

20. No responsibility will be taken by NAWIC or Naylor Love for lost, ineligible, misdirected, or late entries due to technical reasons or any other reason. Entries that are not genuine or are incomplete, late or in any way fraudulent will be declared void.

PRIVACY

21. All entry submissions are the property of NAWIC. Personal information will be collected by NAWIC in Entry Forms or in the administration of the Awards generally.

22. Entry into the Awards is consent by each nominee to be contacted by NAWIC to allow the use of the nominee’s name, image, voice and/or likeness by NAWIC for editorial, advertising, promotional, marketing and/or other purposes without compensation except where prohibited by law by way of photographs or video reels.

GOVERNING LAWS

23. The Awards and these Terms & Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of New Zealand.

24. Subject to statutory restrictions, NAWIC may amend these Terms & Conditions at its absolute discretion without notice.

For assistance or clarification on any aspect of the NAWIC Awards please contact us at Awards@nawic.org.nz

To download a copy of these Terms & Conditions, please click here

This category celebrates significant achievement in advancing and furthering the interests of women in the building, construction or infrastructure industries – those who actively promote participation of women and encourage their progression.

This category is open to any organisation, company, partnership, firm, or individual operating in New Zealand.

Share with us how the nominee/company demonstrates an ongoing and significant commitment to advancing and furthering the interests of women in the building, construction or infrastructure industries.

We would like to hear what else the nominee/company does to promote and encourage women? Do they actively participate in their wider community, volunteer for organisations, attend school career visits or pursue sports or team events.

[Note: This category is NOT about an individual’s career progression or contribution to a project. It is about making a difference and furthering the interests of women in the building, construction or infrastructure industries. Discuss as if you were giving a newspaper interview rather than writing a job application.]

Helen Tippett was a professor at the Victoria University of Wellington’s School of Architecture. She was widely known as the grandmother of the industry and played a pivotal role in establishing NAWIC in New Zealand.

Judging Criteria

1. Holds a senior position with authority enabling them to influence and/or make policy decisions beneficial to women in the building, construction or infrastructure industries.
2. Encourages and empowers women in construction through education, initiating organisational structure, enacting legislation, establishing company policy and actively promotes the inclusion of women in the building, construction or infrastructure industries.
3. Demonstrates leadership by taking initiatives and implementing them on behalf of women.
4. Acts as a role model and/or mentor for women working in the building, construction or infrastructure industries.
5. Share any other activities they are involved in with other women in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates achievement made by qualified tradeswomen working in the construction, building or infrastructure industries.

The award aims to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of qualified tradeswomen, and how they are an inspiring role model for others to follow. These talented nominees excel in achieving high quality standards in their trade, demonstrate excellent safety work practices, mentor and train others, and encourage other women into the construction, building or infrastructure industries.

We would like to hear what else the nominee does? Do they actively participate in their wider community, volunteer for organisations, attend school career visits or pursue sports or team events.

Please provide proof of New Zealand trade qualification/registration.

Judging Criteria

1. Describe the nominee’s role and level of responsibility, and how they deliver excellence.
2. Explain how they promote a high level of health and safety awareness amongst other workers, continuously improve workplace practices, including any innovations to improve safety.
3. How has the nominee trained and mentored others and encouraged more women into the industry?
4. Describe their commitment and future aspirations within the construction, building or infrastructure industries. 
5. What exceptional qualities sets them apart from others in the workplace?
6. Share any other activities they are involved in with others in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates women who make a significant leadership contribution to the building, construction or infrastructure industries in their chosen profession or expertise.

This category is open to all women who have used their influence and position of power to make a difference to others and has over 8 years’ experience in this capacity. The nominee is a leader who inspires and motivates their peers - to be more, and to do more. 

The nominee is a game-changer and role model who leads by example, with integrity, dedication and commitment. As a mentor, the nominee encourages others to enhance and develop their careers and leaves the ladder down for other women to follow.

The nominee is involved in organisations and activities outside the workplace to enhance the environment for other women working in the building, construction or infrastructure industries.

This award is for women who predominantly work in an office environment.

Judging Criteria

1. Explain the initiatives and contributions they make at work or by participating in other industry related associations.
2. Describe the significance of these contributions and the impact they make.
3. Describe how they demonstrate outstanding leadership through unwavering perseverance and dedication.
4. Explain how they encourage personal growth of others in their workplace, industry related organisations or community opportunities.
5. What developments or changes do they want to implement in the industry and how? 
6. How do they participate in the wider community in a leadership capacity? Share any other industry activities or wider community contribution they are actively involved in.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates women who make a significant leadership contribution to the building, construction or infrastructure industries in their chosen profession or expertise.

This category is open to all women who have used their influence and position of power to make a difference to others and have over 8 years’ experience in this capacity. The nominee is a leader who inspires and motivates their peers - to be more, and to do more. 

The nominee is a game-changer and role model who leads by example, with integrity, dedication and commitment. As a mentor, the nominee encourages others to enhance and develop their careers; and leaves the ladder down for other women to follow.

The nominee is involved in organisations and activities outside the workplace to enhance the environment for other women working in the building, construction or infrastructure industries.

This award is for women who predominantly work on site.

Judging Criteria

1. Explain any initiatives and contributions they make at work or by participating in other industry related associations.
2. Describe the significance of these contributions and the impact they make.
3. Describe how they demonstrate outstanding leadership through unwavering perseverance and dedication.
4. Explain how they encourage personal growth of others in their workplace, industry related organisations or community opportunities.
5. What developments or changes do they want to implement in the industry and how? 
6. How do they participate in the wider community, in a leadership capacity? Share any other industry activities or wider community contribution they are actively involved in.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category acknowledges the accomplishments of women contributing behind the scenes, playing a crucial role in ensuring the success of the workplace, whether in an office or project office setting.

These women excel in technical support roles in the building, construction or infrastructure industries dedicating the majority of their working week to office-based responsibilities.

Nominees contribute significantly to the seamless functioning and success of construction projects through enhancements or process innovation and related endeavours from the office. 

We would also like to hear what else the nominee does. 

Open to all women who serve in an organisational or administrative capacity, including roles in sales/marketing, education, project administration, building officials, building compliance, local and central government, document control, industry organisations, office/practice management, tender services, customer support, procurement, training and development, human resources, planning, communications, business analysis, legal counsel, and other roles vital to the building, construction or infrastructure industries.

Judging Criteria

1. Describe the nominee’s role, and provide examples of how they demonstrate excellence in their work.
2. Describe how they work collaboratively with their peers and project stakeholders in the workplace.
3. Explain any innovation and creativity the nominee has incorporated into their role or process to significantly enhance the workplace/management system or project success.
4. Demonstrate their commitment to the construction industry.
5. Share any other activities they are involved in with other women in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates the accomplishments of women contributing in a crucial role in ensuring the success of the workplace on site, on the road, out in the field, or in a technical supporting role.

Nominees safely plan and lead work teams to ensure all resources (people, plant and equipment) are available to successfully execute their role in the project. This includes planning and scheduling, leading multiple operational teams, subcontractor management, supplier management, and involvement  of the site safety management.

An effective communicator with both internal and external stakeholders including design and construction teams, and regulatory authorities, these women provide leadership and guidance to the team for a safe and efficient workplace environment.

This category is open to all women who work in site operations such as; Site supervisor/manager, leading hand, site engineer, foreperson, field/case manager, production manager, stakeholder manager, STMS management, land surveyors, inspectors, technical advisors. 

Using their exceptional operational talents, how else do they participate in the industry that goes above and beyond the requirements of their workplace or wider community.

These women dedicate the majority of their working week to site or field-based responsibilities on site, on the road away from the main office (maybe based in a site office).

Judging Criteria

1. Describe the nominee's role and level of responsibility, and how they deliver excellence.
2. Provide examples of how they are effective communicators working collaboratively with both internal and external stakeholders, including design and construction teams, and regulatory authorities.
3. Describe an innovation and/or methodology they have developed to significantly enhance the workplace/management system or project success.
4. Describe how their role and contribution impacts on the overall success of their workplace or project.
5. Share any other activities they are involved in with other women in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates women who demonstrate significant initiative and leadership potential within the building, construction or infrastructure industries.

Recognises the ability of women to proactively inspire others, demonstrate initiative and dedication of a future leader working in the building, construction or infrastructure industries and wider community.

This category is open to all women who have worked in the building, construction or infrastructure industries with more than two years and less than six years experience. This includes work performed in the trades, as a professional or in an organisational or operational role.

We want to hear examples of how the nominee’s active participation and innovation goes above and beyond the requirements of the workplace.

Demonstrate the nominee’s initiative and potential as future leader; and inspiring role model in the building, construction or infrastructure industries as well as the wider community.

This award is for women who predominantly work in an office environment.

Judging Criteria

1. Describe the nominee’s role, and an innovation and/or methodology have they developed to significantly enhance the workplace or project success? 
2. Describe how they demonstrate significant initiative, are an active role model and show exceptional future leadership qualities.
3. Tell us how their contribution has impacted the workplace and inspired other staff or wider community. 
4. Outline their goals and future aspirations within the construction, building or infrastructure industries.
5. What developments or changes do they want to implement in the industry and how? 
6. Share any other activities they are involved in with other women in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates women who demonstrate significant initiative and unquestionable leadership potential within the building, construction or infrastructure industries.

Recognises the ability of women to proactively inspire others, demonstrate initiative, potential  and dedication of a future leader working in the building, construction or infrastructure industries and wider community.

This category is open to all women who have worked in the building, construction or infrastructure industries with more than two years and less than six years experience. This includes work performed in the trades, as a professional or in an organisational or operational role.

We want to hear examples of how the nominee’s active participation and innovation goes above and beyond the requirements of the workplace.

Demonstrate the nominee’s initiative and potential as future leader; and inspiring role model in the building, construction or infrastructure industries as well as the wider community.

This award is for women who predominantly work on site.

Judging Criteria

1. Describe the nominee’s role, and an innovation and/or methodology have they developed to significantly enhance the workplace or project success? 
2. Describe how they demonstrate significant initiative, are an active role model and show exceptional future leadership qualities.
3. Tell us how their contribution has impacted the workplace and inspired other staff or wider community.
4. Outline their goals and future aspirations within the construction, building, infrastructure industries.
5. What developments or changes do they want to implement in the industry and how? 
6. Share any other activities they are involved in with other women in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates the outstanding contribution of women who actively promote the inclusion of health, safety & wellbeing practices, initiatives, or innovations on a project or across an organisation operating in the construction, building or infrastructure industries.

The award is assessed on demonstrating outstanding contribution to health, safety, and wellbeing leadership with the ability to solve complex problems on a specific project within the building, construction or infrastructure industries.

We want to hear from women who are passionate about inspiring positive change and action by encouraging and supporting others in the building, construction or infrastructure industries to be healthy and safe.

Quantifying the nominee’s contribution to health, safety and wellbeing in their workplace and how it has shaped them and the impact these positive changes have made to others.

This award is dedicated to Kristy Christensen - Kristy was a tireless campaigner and advocate for women in both the mining and construction industries across New Zealand and Australia. Unfortunately, Kristy passed away from breast cancer in March 2022. 

Judging Criteria

1. Describe the nominee's role on a project or within an organisation, and the challenges, risks and improvements made, and any specific background or history to give context. 
2. What was their contribution for promotion of health, safety and wellbeing, challenges overcome, or new initiatives or innovations developed?
3. Demonstrate how their actions or initiatives taken benefits/impacts key project stakeholders, people and communities.
4. What makes this action or initiatives standout from other site environments.
5. Share any other activities they are involved in with other women in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates female students who demonstrate a high level of potential and commitment within the construction, building or infrastructure industries.

This category is open to all women who, at the time of entering, are engaged in study, either part time or full time study at an accredited New Zealand tertiary institute related to the construction, building or infrastructure industries in an undergraduate course. This includes New Zealand studies such as a professional degree, or in an administrative or operational role.

Describe the nominee’s role and influence within the construction industry; how it has shaped the nominee as a person; and what it means to be a future leader and how the nominee embodies this ability.

Please provide proof of current study by way of course confirmation from the accredited New Zealand tertiary institute.

Judging Criteria

1. Describe their ability to overcome challenges, demonstrate initiative and how they show potential to make a significant contribution to the construction, building or infrastructure industries.
2. Demonstrates the skills necessary to be successful in the construction industry in their chosen field of study/training.
3. Outline their goals and future aspirations within the construction, building, infrastructure or related industries.
4. Describe their potential to inspire, motivate and be a role model for other women to follow.
5. Other criteria they and/or their nominator considers relevant. This may include voluntary work in the community in any sector.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category celebrates female apprentices who demonstrate a high level of potential and commitment within the construction, building or infrastructure industries.

This category is open to all women who, at the time of entering, are completing an apprenticeship programme with an accredited provider related to the construction, building or infrastructure industries.

Describe the nominee’s role and influence within the construction industry; how it has shaped the nominee as a person; and what it means to be a future leader and how the nominee embodies this ability.

Please provide proof of current Apprentice training by way of the accredited provider, course confirmation.

Judging Criteria

1. Describe their ability to overcome challenges, demonstrate initiative, how they work as a team and show potential to make a significant contribution to the construction, building or infrastructure industries.
2. Demonstrates the skills necessary to be successful in the construction industry in their chosen field of study/training.
3. Outline their goals and future aspirations within the construction, building, infrastructure or related industries.
4. Describe their potential to inspire, motivate and be a role model for other women to follow.
5. Other criteria they and/or their nominator considers relevant. This may include voluntary work in the community in any sector.

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

This category acknowledges the exceptional accomplishments of women engaged in the operation of vehicles, heavy machinery, and various plant equipment.

These dedicated women play a pivotal role in efficiently managing materials and machinery on construction sites, showcasing expertise in handling heavy trucks, excavators, cranes, developing improved work processes and more. Their responsibilities extend to ensuring safety both on-site and during transportation, as they actively lead the development of strategies for workplace hazard management.

This category is open to all women working as versatile plant and machinery operators on construction or infrastructure projects. Eligible nominees must possess the requisite licences and certifications for operating specific plant or machinery. These women are tasked with conducting quality checks on plant and machinery, often operating multiple machines within their certified range. Their skill set enables them to safely navigate and manipulate plant and machinery, estimating weights to comply with lifting limits and ensuring the secure distribution of loads during activities such as loading, unloading, and hauling materials around the site or to other locations.

Furthermore, they are role models to their peers and contribute to the mentorship of less experienced colleagues when needed. We are also interested in how they contribute to other women in the industry and in the wider community.

This category encompasses a diverse range of roles including; machine and plant operators, crane operators, rigging professionals, heavy truck drivers, water/wastewater operators, mechanics, bitumen tanker operators, stabilizer operators, road markers, and other specialist operators in the construction and infrastructure industries.

Please provide proof by way of a list of current certifications/competencies from your employer/training certifier.

Judging Criteria

1. Explain the responsibilities of the nominee’s role, the types of machinery and plant they are qualified to operate and the scope of responsibility for the scheduling, maintenance and repairs? and resource planning for the sites’ equipment and plant.
2. Provide examples of their exceptional skill operating the plant and machinery, manage loads distribution and hauling materials around the site or to other off site locations. 
3. How do they deliver excellence in communications with other siteworks and operators critical in the safe operation of plant and machinery in a busy workplace.
4. Describe how they adhere to health and safety regulations for the plant and machinery, and  how equipment maintenance is managed, while operating within programme expectations and site and general public environments.
5. Describe what special qualities make them excellent. 
6. Share any other activities they are involved in with other women in the industry and outside the workplace and wider community. 

To download a copy of the category description and judging criteria - please click here

Can I enter more than one category?

Sorry no, you can only enter one category. Please read the criteria for each category to determine which is the most suitable for your nomination.

In the event that an individual is nominated for more than one category, the appropriate category will be determined by the NAWIC Awards team. (We will be in touch to confirm this with you.)

Are the Awards open to non-members of NAWIC?

Absolutely!  Our awards are open to all women in the construction industry.

Can I nominate myself for an Award?

To enter the Awards you can self-nominate, or you may be nominated by someone else. 

Both self-nomination and third-party nominations are welcome, however the nominee must agree to be nominated.

Do I need to submit a photo of the nominee?

No, not yet. To remove the risk of unconscious bias at judging, photos of the nominee are not permitted in their submission. (And this includes links to videos etc.) We will ask for any photos or links with images to be removed.

Only if the nominee is selected as a finalist will NAWIC  request a headshot photo for the Awards presentation and associated publicity.

What sort of information should I include?

The judges want to know about your working world, but also additional info about you. 

What makes you tick, what drives you to achieve? Why do you love this industry? What else do you do in your spare time?

Can I change my submission once I have entered the Awards?

It is possible to amend your submission is you need to - right up until the nominations closing date - 9 March 2025, at 7pm.

Who should I ask to be a referee?

Select someone who knows your career well and can talk about you and your achievements with ease. Share your nomination with them to help them prepare for the judges call. Referees are often the source of “golden nuggets” when talking about you.

The judges will only talk to one of your referees, however we ask for two contacts just in case one is unavailable on the day.

What happens on Judging day?

All nominees will get a phone call from a judge to discuss their nomination. They may contact you before this date to set up an approximate appointment time for judging day.

The judges will also contact one of your referees to learn more about your achievements and contribution to the project or organisation you work for.

What makes an entry excellent?

Judges are looking for stellar qualities that make you stand out from your peers, tell them your story and what makes you excellent.

Be sure to address all the judging criteria, and share any additional/ outside work activities where you encourage women to step up.

Why enter the Awards?

Why not? This is your time to shine! Showcase your skills and achievements by sharing them with others. Be proud!

Every year finalists share how much they enjoyed being part of the Awards - from submitting their nomination and judging, right through to the  Awards gala event.

Good Luck – We encourage you to enter, while it’s not always easy to talk about yourself, referees will always speak enthusiastically about their nominee. Follow their example.

If it helps, prepare the entry form as if you are talking about someone else.